Why I decided to Intern for ARCC

Growing up in the Twin Cities I was exposed to police brutality, white supremacy, and hate in general. I used to fear getting into a car with my father, terrified that one wrong move could result in the next headline. In my suburban school, I was one of three Black children in my grade until I got to high school. I never knew true diversity until I was grown enough to stand up for myself and find my own community. To me as a little Black girl, the world never felt safe.

I find myself at college in a PWI (predominantly white institution), where I’m being asked for reassurance by my peers and I’m constantly educating them about why Black lives matter. It’s hard being one of a handful of people who look like me, but standing strong in my values and pointing people toward positive change keeps me going.

Today, I’m volunteering for ARCC for my family, for my friends, for the little Black girls who were told that their hair looks better straightened. I’m volunteering for a team of strong-minded individuals who have a passion for peace, love, and true equality. I’m volunteering for a better world, one filled with love and no racism. A world that feels safe… especially for little Black girls like the one I was.